Our exploration of the Old School House on Walney Island took a fascinating turn when we discovered Jane Gibson, the artist behind the evocative painting “Michaelson House, Barrow Island.” This single work ignited a quest to learn more about the woman who wielded the brush and the artistic legacy she might have left behind. #BarrowIsland #JaneGibson #MysteryArtist
Delving into “Michaelson House, Barrow Island”
Michaelson House, Barrow Island offers a tantalising glimpse into Jane Gibson’s artistic vision. The oil painting captures the grandeur of Michaelson House, a looming figure on Barrow Island, with its solid stone walls standing against the shifting skies. The heavy scent of salty sea air mingles with the sharp metallic tang of the iron-ore schooners in the foreground, their large sails billowing in the wind. The crashing of waves against the rocky shore is faintly audible, as the gentle hum of industrial life begins to assert itself. In the distance, the Walney Channel glistens in the sunlight, dotted with ships as they transport ore, their movements punctuated by the rhythmic slap of water against hulls. There’s a sense of change in the air—a transition from the pastoral calm to the inevitable force of industrialisation, hinted at through the painting’s bustling scene.
Intriguing Connections
Interestingly, the story behind the painting extends beyond the canvas. Research reveals that Jane Gibson married Thomas Michaelson of Cartmel in 1841. Shortly after their marriage, Michaelson purchased Barrow Island, and the mansion depicted in the painting became known as Michaelson House. The juxtaposition of the house’s stately quietude with the industrial life unfolding on the water suggests an artist who was deeply aware of the world changing around her. The painting itself underwent a conservation process in 2008, ensuring its preservation for future generations, much like the house that once stood proudly amidst the quieter landscape of the island, now altered forever.
Beyond a Single Canvas
While Michaelson House, Barrow Island stands as the sole surviving testament to Jane Gibson’s artistic skill, the details surrounding the painting spark curiosity. The inclusion of the industrial scene, with its ore-laden schooners and the smoky breath of early industry, hints at an artist’s interest in documenting the transformation of the area during the mid-19th century. Perhaps she wasn’t merely capturing a place, but also an era—one defined by both the quiet, windswept beauty of nature and the relentless march of industry. Could the sounds of clanging iron and the scent of coal smoke have influenced her choices in the composition, framing a moment in time where the two worlds collided?
A Glimpse into a Lost Era
We have also discovered another painting depicting Michaelson House, this time showcasing the house alongside its greenhouse. The delicate aroma of the flowers within the greenhouse and the coolness of the stone walls would have been a sharp contrast to the expanding industry outside. While the artist of this second painting remains unknown, it offers a complementary view of the estate. Historical records tell us that in 1870, Barrow Island was still described as “a pleasant rural nook.” The quiet rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the soft murmur of gentle winds would have been the natural soundtrack of the area. However, by 1882, the industrial boom had transformed the island dramatically. The rise of smoke and the churning of machinery filled the air, drowning out the natural sounds and leaving behind a landscape marked by the footprints of progress.
The Mystery Deepens
Jane Gibson’s artistic legacy remains shrouded in mystery. These two paintings offer a starting point, but is Michaelson House, Barrow Island her only work? What artistic style and subject matter did she favour? The smell of paint in the air, the rough texture of canvas, and the subtle brushstrokes she used to bring life to the scene—all of these details add layers to the enigma of her creative process. Perhaps you, dear reader, possess knowledge that can help unravel the mystery of Jane Gibson. Do you have any information about her or her artwork? Have you seen similar paintings? Share your thoughts and knowledge in the comments below!
A huge thank you to The Dock Museum for providing the captivating photos used in this blog post and for their dedication to preserving Cumbria’s heritage. With their kind permission, these images help bring the story of Jane Gibson to life. Image courtesy of The Dock Museum